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Diving Technique
The most important problem facing the primitive divers
was the length of time they could stay under water. This
they attempted to solve by rubbing their bodies with oil,
which probably protected them against the cold and so reduced
the consumption of oxygen, and by holding a sponge in their
mouths, which probably had a psychological effect on the
respiration.
The invention of air compression in the 18th century made
developments in diving techniques possible, and in 1827
Siebe invented the diving suit with helmet. In this, however,
the lead weights attached to the feet severely restricted
freedom of movement.
In 1943 diving was made much easier by the invention of
the Aqualung by Gagnen and Cousteau. This automatically
adjusts the pressure of air supplied according to depth
and water pressure. Using an aqualung a diver can move freely
under water without any connection with the surface.
The diver setting out on underwater archaeology must have
a rubber suit to protect him from the cold, a waterproof
watch, a mask to allow him to see under water, a knife to
extricate himself from weeds etc., fins to facilitate movement,
a weighted belt, an under water camera, measuring instruments,
plastic paper and a special underwater pen.
Activities
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